Garlic mashed potatoes are a quintessential comfort food that brings warmth and joy to any meal. The rich, buttery flavor of Yukon gold potatoes, combined with the pungency of garlic and the creaminess of milk and sour cream, creates a dish that is both simple and indulgent. This recipe is a testament to the versatility of potatoes, which can be transformed from humble tubers into a culinary masterpiece with just a few key ingredients and some careful preparation. Whether you’re serving it as a side dish for a holiday feast or a cozy weeknight dinner, these garlic mashed potatoes are sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1 1/3 cup whole milk
- 6 garlic cloves, smashed
- 8 Tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 2 Tbsp chives, finely chopped, for garnish
Instructions
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Cook the Potatoes: Place the potato chunks into a large pot and cover them with cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15-18 minutes or until the potatoes are easily pierced with a fork.
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Prepare the Garlic Milk: While the potatoes are boiling, heat the milk and smashed garlic in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once the mixture is just steaming, remove it from the heat and set it aside. Discard the garlic if desired.
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Drain and Mash: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Place the pot over very low heat and mash the potatoes using a potato masher or an electric hand mixer. The key is to mash them while they are still hot so they don’t turn gummy.
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Add Milk and Butter: Drizzle in the hot milk mixture to reach your desired texture. Cut the softened butter into chunks and mash them into the potatoes until well incorporated.
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Add Sour Cream and Salt: Add the sour cream and 1 to 1 1/2 tsp of salt or add salt to taste. Stir well to combine.
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Serve: Serve the garlic mashed potatoes warm, drizzled with more butter if desired, and garnished with fresh chives.
Top Tips
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Use High-Quality Potatoes: Choose Yukon gold potatoes for their creamy texture and natural buttery flavor.
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Don’t Over-Mix: Avoid over-mixing the potatoes, as this can make them gluey and unappetizing.
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Roast Garlic for Extra Flavor: If you have time, roast garlic in the oven for an hour to bring out its deep, nutty flavor.
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Add Chives at the End: Add chopped chives just before serving to preserve their freshness and flavor.
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Experiment with Spices: Try adding a pinch of black pepper or a sprinkle of paprika to give your garlic mashed potatoes an extra kick.
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Use Leftovers: These potatoes are perfect for leftovers. Simply reheat them in the microwave or oven with a bit more butter and milk if needed.
Variations
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Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Roast garlic in the oven for an hour before mashing it into the potatoes for an intense, caramelized flavor.
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Herbed Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add some chopped fresh herbs like rosemary or parsley to give the potatoes a fresh, herbaceous flavor.
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Spicy Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the potatoes a spicy kick.
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Sour Cream-Free Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt or heavy cream for a different texture and flavor.
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Instant Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Cook the potatoes in an Instant Pot with some garlic and milk for a quick and easy version of this recipe.
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Garlic Scapes Mashed Potatoes: Use garlic scapes instead of regular garlic for a milder, sweeter flavor.
Nutritional Guide
| Nutrient | Per Serving (8 servings) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 |
| Fat | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Protein | 3g |
Additional Nutritional Notes: This recipe is relatively low in calories and fat but high in carbohydrates, making it a good option for those looking for a comforting side dish without overindulging. The sour cream adds a touch of protein and creaminess, while the garlic provides a boost of antioxidants. For a healthier version, consider using less butter or substituting it with olive oil.
